How to Hunt Public Land in Texas: A Beginner's Guide

‍Introduction

Hunting is a popular outdoor activity in Texas. 

Publicly available land to hunt in Texas provides an awesome opportunity to affordably go hunting while also enjoying the great outdoors.

However, hunting on public land can be difficult, particularly if you are are unfamiliar with the rules and regulations. We'll go over some tips and advice for hunting on public land in Texas in this guide.

1. Research and scout your location

Before heading out to public land to hunt, it's essential to do your research and scout your location. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) offers an abundance of helpful information on their website.

In addition, I've extracted lease information for the Hill Country and Gulf Coast regions of public land available to hunt in Texas (more regions will be uploaded) to be an easier way to find this information. Each page contains information about the lease, game allowed to hunt, special regulations and more...

Below are two examples of an official hunting map and ariel map included in each lease's page you can save.

Lone Star Outdoorsman is a great resource to find public land to hunt in Texas, stay up-to-date on hunting news and get helpful hunting content. I do my absolute best to keep this information up to date and accurate, but you should always double check to avoid any unforeseen issues for your hunt.

Once you've found a location, visit the area before the hunt to scout the terrain, identify potential hunting spots, and familiarize yourself with the area's regulations.‍

2. Know the hunting regulations

Every public hunting land in Texas has specific rules and regulations that hunters must follow. These regulations can include bag limits, hunting hours, and specific hunting methods. 

It's essential to read and understand these regulations before heading out to hunt to avoid any violations that could result in fines or penalties. 

Our website provides detailed information on hunting regulations for each public hunting land in Texas.

3. Be prepared for the hunt

Being well-prepared is essential when hunting on public land in Texas, as the conditions can be physically demanding.

So it's important to bring along the right equipment and supplies. Here are some key items you should pack for your hunting trip:

1. Water and food: It's important to stay hydrated and well-fed while hunting, so bring plenty of water and snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up.
2. Warm clothing: Texas weather can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothing and layers to stay comfortable in changing temperatures if you will be hunting in the cooler months.
3. Navigation tools: A map, compass, and GPS device can help you navigate the area and find your way back to your starting point.
4. Hunting gear: Bring all necessary hunting gear, such as a firearm, bow, as well as ammunition.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable hunting trip on public land in Texas.

4. Hunt safely and ethically

When hunting on public land, safety should always be your top priority. To ensure your safety, wear appropriate gear such as blaze orange clothing and remain vigilant of your surroundings throughout the hunting trip.

Hunting ethically is also crucial. It is imperative that you take only the game that is allowed by law and utilize hunting methods that reduce any pain and suffering for the animals. By hunting responsibly, you'll be contributing to the conservation efforts of the public land while also maintaining a positive image for hunting.

5. Leave no trace

Hunters should always leave the area better than they found it. Don't mess with Texas!! 

This means packing out all trash, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and minimizing the impact on the environment. 

By leaving no trace, hunters can ensure that public hunting lands in Texas remain a valuable resource for future generations.

Conclusion

Hunting on public land in Texas offers a unique and memorable experience to those who are prepared and follow the rules without having to pay a premium for a guided hunt. 

By conducting thorough research, comprehending the regulations, and packing appropriately, you can enhance your chances of a successful hunt while also reveling in the breathtaking natural scenery that Texas has to offer. 

Always remember to hunt safely and ethically, and leave no trace behind to preserve the natural environment for future generations to enjoy. 

With these tips in mind, you're sure to have an incredible time exploring the public hunting lands of Texas.